Five generations of Colorado. Three decades in Summit. One commitment: home.
With five generations of native Coloradans in my family, Colorado is more than where I live — it is home. My father, four children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren all call Colorado home. I am deeply invested in the future of Summit County, not only for my family, but for yours as well.
In 1994, my husband and I moved to Summit County with our four children to help operate my parents' business, Summit Adventure Park, located in the meadow at Farmers Korner where Summit High School now stands. Summit County felt like a special place — a community of hardworking locals and happy visitors, all sharing in the incredible quality of life this county offers.
Over the past three decades, I have witnessed tremendous growth and change. Some changes have strengthened our community, while others have created new challenges. Those experiences have inspired me to step forward and serve. I believe now is the time to do more, be more, and give more.
Investing in Education
Our children are our future. As a community, we have a responsibility to ensure they receive the education, support, and opportunities they need to thrive as adults.
When the combined middle and high school in Frisco became too small, our family's Adventure Park property was identified as the ideal location for a new high school. We made the difficult decision to sacrifice our business so future generations of Summit County students would have a place to learn and grow. It remains one of the proudest decisions our family has ever made.
My oldest son was part of the school's first graduating class. His photo hangs on the wall, and a brick bearing our family name remains in the main entrance. Following the school's opening, I worked in Summit County schools for nearly ten years alongside students, teachers, administrators, and staff who were dedicated to helping children succeed.
I believe our schools deserve strong community support, high expectations, and a commitment to excellence. I will work to ensure our students have every opportunity to succeed.
Supporting Public Safety
Public safety is one of the most important responsibilities of county government.
In 2018, I had the opportunity to meet then-interim Sheriff Jaime FitzSimons while operating the Farmers Korner gas station. What began as a simple conversation developed into a lasting mutual respect for the difficult work performed every day by our Sheriff's Office and first responders.
As County Commissioner, I will work to ensure that public safety remains a top priority. We must carefully evaluate county spending and make certain our Sheriff's Office has the resources necessary to protect our residents, visitors, businesses, and families. A safe community is the foundation of a strong community.
Finding Real Workforce Housing Solutions
Workforce housing has been part of my family's commitment to Summit County for more than 70 years through Farmers Korner Mobile Home Park.
Unlike many housing projects, our mobile home park has operated without government subsidies by choice. My family has worked hard to keep lot rents affordable because we understand that local workers are the backbone of our community. I personally lived in the mobile home park for the first nine years after moving to Summit County, so I understand the importance of affordable housing from firsthand experience.
The workforce housing crisis did not develop overnight, and it will not be solved by repeating approaches that have not produced lasting results. We need practical, fiscally responsible solutions that preserve the character of our community, support local workers, and avoid placing additional tax burdens on residents. I am committed to working collaboratively with community leaders, business owners, residents, and housing experts to identify and implement solutions that truly make a difference.
Summit is home. Let's keep it that way.
— Lori